Princess Charlene of Monaco, formerly Charlene Wittstock, has given one of her first interviews since marrying Prince Albert of Monaco in July. The South-African born princess, who has rarely been seen in public since the nuptials, says she will approach her new royal role 'her way'.

Speaking to the UK's Telegraph newspaper, the former Olympic swimmer said she is still coming to terms with the official role, saying, "I think that would be expected of me in the near future. But I have just taken a bit of a break. I need time to adjust. I just got married". The Princess opened up about her struggles to learn French, saying she was going about it "step by step", adding, "I think for anyone living in a new country and adapting to a new lifestyle, it's a different role. I was an Olympic swimmer, I lived in a swimsuit, I lived on tour". Just two days before her wedding to Prince Albert, intense media speculation suggested she attempted to leave Monaco because of allegations made against her husband-to-be. There were also reports the newlyweds slept in separate hotels during one night on their honeymoon in South Africa.

Despite her lack of recent public appearances, Princess Charlene stepped out on Sunday (2nd October 2011), sitting in the front row at the Akiris fashion show, close to Vogue editor ANNA WINTOUR.